You can do a little research on LinkedIn or Jigsaw about the right person to speak with. That's pretty easy stuff.

To start -- keep it short. The key to getting the best response is to frame your question so that the other company understands the value in continuing the conversation with you.

BTW, use a tool like Yesware or Boomerang to remind you when you've sent an email that has not received a response yet.

Dan

p.s. Lots more to this discussion. But that should get you started.